Blogs

You could've knocked me over with a feather this morning when I opened my inbox and there was the news: Murray's Cheese opening seven mini Murray's stores inside local QFC stores. I had to check to make sure it wasn't an Onion headline.

Don't mind if I toot our own horn, but The Forecast fashion show at Benaroya Hall last night (a first-time endeavor for Seattle mag in theme and format) was a hoot. The crowd was lively (and impeccably dressed); the drinks were strong (sorry for Tweeting too much); and the concept delivered: the spectacle of high fashion met the practical needs of life in the Northwest, where we actually like to move around in the clothing we buy.

Nothing beats the winter blues like a dip in a pool. If a tropical getaway isn’t in your immediate future, you can still go for a swim at one of the many local indoor pools. With everything from movie nights to rope swings to indoor rivers, you might even forget it’s winter out there!

Tomorrow morning, at 9 a.m. sharp, the downtown Nordstrom Rack completes its move from Second Ave to Westlake Center with a grand opening celebration. Last night, I got a sneak peek at roomy new space, and let me say: It is glorious.

After months of delays due to challenges with construction, I'm thrilled to announce that chef Greg Atkinson's Restaurant Marché Bainbridge is opening Saturday night. (Not to be confused with Marché at Pike Place market, which I reviewed this month.)

The phrase "Northwest fashion" isn't commonly used. Probably because it evokes smirks and Gore-Tex jokes more than it actually describes any identifiable trends or habits.
But after hosting four annual local designer competitions (Seamless in Seattle) and covering new and exciting retailers and designers in the magazine every month, this editorial team can testify that Seattle has plenty to offer in to the fashion industry, and not just the corner of it that also houses a rock-climbing wall.

Did you know?
A 1998 Penn State University study found that people leaving a parking space take 11 seconds longer to do so when there is another car waiting for the spot. One exception: When the waiting car is a high-status model, men leave "significantly sooner."

Good news: the State House of Representatives passed the bill that will renew the Motion Picture Competitiveness Program or the Washington State Film Incentive. 92 yeses to 6 nos? Sounds more like a slam dunk than a pass.
From the Washington Filmworks Blog:

Great news, Cuban sandwich fans! Paladar Cubano, the truck that once lived at 89th and Aurora, doling out the best Cuban sandwiches (by far!) in town, is back in business as Cafe Con Leche in Sodo (2905 1st Avenue S).
Before Paladar Cubano closed in the summer of 2010, I became addicted to the sandwiches, grilled to order with a crisp crust, tender pork and ham, the smart bite of mustard, melting cheese. I think I know what I'm having for lunch today.

In addition to sea-faring looks, The Forecast fashion show next Wednesday night will explore some other waterproof fashions: rain gear.
Now that I’ve said that, please clear your mind of all clear plastic poncho-imagery and get ready for some happier options. (It is Friday after all.)
Fittingly, Seattle has a wealth of wet weather wear that is both super sleek and chic; we could not be more thrilled to introduce you to the local designers and retailers knocking down all myths that being weatherproof means you have to ratchet down your style:

Do you worry that your kiddos are more familiar with Angry Birds than with their multiplication times tables? Chances are you're just like us—guilty of throwing your kids in front of the iPod or iPad just so you can secure a few minutes to finish up that nagging work project or make a couple of phone calls.

In reality the first day of spring is March 20th, but for me, nothing heralds the arrival of sunnier days ahead than the annual Art Institute student designer fashion show. This year’s rendition, The Rite of Spring, will be presented by Neiman Marcus and takes place tonight at the Showbox SoDo. Tickets still available at the door; join in the fun as emerging local designers show off their stuff.